Historic Deal Aims to Restore Salmon Runs in Pacific Northwest

The Biden administration and key stakeholders reached a major agreement to revitalize salmon populations in the Columbia River Basin.

The $1 billion plan focuses on boosting clean energy production and supporting tribal communities, but avoids the contentious issue of dam removal.

Key Points

• The Columbia Basin was once a salmon powerhouse, but human development has led to decline.

• Dams are a major factor in the salmon's struggle, but breaching them isn't part of this plan.

• The agreement prioritizes clean energy development alongside salmon restoration.

• Tribal leaders see the deal as a positive step towards a healthy salmon population.

• Opponents, including some lawmakers, criticize the lack of dam removal and potential economic impacts.

Read more here.

Additional Resources

• Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative